Midsummer and Jonines

June 21:  The sun rose at 3:48 AM and set at 9:22, but the curvature of the earth meant that this was the view outside my window at 11:00 at night.  It never really got dark.  This makes it difficult to get to sleep, even though my bedroom is dark, because I don't think in terms of going to bed until about midnight.  As a result, I tend to sleep until perhaps 8:00 if I don't make myself get up.  This is rather disturbing to me, since I am generally a morning person.

The locals have designated the day as a celebration of St John and call it Jonines.  The festivities include much greenery such as the swags on the bridge.  We also had to walk under an arch of greenery to get to the dance floor.

It was an opportunity wear fancy ethnic clothing.  I really want one of these outfits.  I can just see myself sharing about my experiences to a group in the States in a long pleated plaid skirt with a fancy apron , blouse and vest.

I noticed several differences between this festival and one that might take place in the US.  There were close to 100 people on the dance floor and many hundreds more on the surrounding hills listening to the music.  For this group of people, there were perhaps ten concession stands and only one that served alcohol.  In addition to being non alcoholic and non commercial, the atmosphere was decidedly family with many young children around.  And people who came to dance really danced.  It was not just those who were in fancy dress who participated.  The organizers were well prepared.  They had at least three bands.  When one got tired they just brought in another.

       The last part of the festival was the lighting of the bond fire.  I took a photo of the prepared wood.  I stayed until 10:00 and decided that it would never get dark enough for the fire and went home.  But, it was a fun time.  Now the days are getting shorter.  I am not excited.